Subsurface Storage System

Abstract

One version of this disclosure includes a subsurface storage system having two components respectively made from a single mold: a panel and a connector. In this version, a first layer of the system includes at least one connector having an identical top side and bottom side where each side may respectively maintain a panel in a specified position when engaged with the panel. A plurality of panels, particularly the bottom edges of the panels, are configured into an engagement with the at least one connector to form a plurality of shapes. A third layer of the system is at least one connector that engages the upper edge of the panels. Additional panels may be positioned on the second layer of connectors. Further, additional panels may be positioned on the second layer of connectors to form another layer of shapes defined by the panels.

Description

PRIORITY

This application claims priority from the disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/966,096, entitled “ISI Next Generation Subsurface Water Storage,” filed Aug. 24, 2007, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates in general to subsurface storage systems and, in particular, to underground water storage systems having interlocking cell layers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Existing subsurface storage units are known in the art. Such storage units often include bulky, sizeable components that require various hardware to construct and install. This increased complexity may require further time and energy to build and install the storage system. These costs may even exceed the cost of the storage system itself. The lack of interchangeability of components generally found in such systems may further increase the cost of parts and labor required for service.

In some units, the bulkiness of the system makes it inefficient to transport the unit and/or its components. This may create a variety of issues such as increased installation costs or requiring that the system be constructed at a convenient location. The inability to install such devices on-site may make them expensive or even cost prohibitive. The size of such devices may also limit where they can be used. For example, if may be difficult to use such devices in shallow areas, where a need for storage still exists.

Further, systems known in the art do not offer high void ratios. In this version, the term high void ratio refers to the percentage ratio comparing the storage space available in an area after the installation of a storage unit and the storage space available in an area prior to the installation of a storage unit (i.e. when the area is empty). In some situations, it may be desirable to achieve a high void ratio to increase the space available for storage purposes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention; it being understood, however, that this invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements in the several views. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one version of a storage system having a plurality of panels.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of one of the plurality of panels shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an alternative version of a panel.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a plurality of the panels of FIG. 1 shown in a stacked configuration.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 1 having a plurality of engagement members.

FIG. 6 shows a top view of a honeycomb configuration of the panels of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of one of the engagement members of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8A shows a perspective view of the engagement between the connector and the panel from the version of the system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8B shows a cross-sectional view of the engagement shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 shows a plurality of connectors from the version of the system in FIG. 1 in an engaged position with each other.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a version of a system having multiple layers of panels.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description of certain examples of the current application should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention as expressed in the appended claims. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description. Accordingly, the figures and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

Referring now to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate the same elements throughout the views, FIG. 1 depicts one version of a storage system (10). The storage system (10) shown in this version comprises a plurality of panels (20) engaged with a connector (30). When fully constructed, the connector (30) maintains the panels (20) in a configuration where the panels (20) form a plurality of hexagonal shapes. The plurality of hexagonal shapes function to support and define a void for the storage of water therein. The plurality of hexagonal shapes are configured to provide durable support to a cavity while providing sufficient volume for water retention. Further, additional panels (20) may be positioned adjacent to and aligned with the panels (20) currently shown in FIG. 1 to form additional hexagonal shapes as shown in FIG. 1. Any suitable number of hexagonal shapes may be provided such that a desired void or cavity may be filled and supported by the storage system (10).

In one version, each of the plurality of panels (20) is shaped as shown in FIG. 2, where the panels (20) are configured to be engaged with one another during assembly to form a plurality of honeycomb shapes. In the illustrated version, each of the panels (20) have an identical configuration that forms different portions of the honeycomb depending on orientation. It will be appreciated that the panels (20) may have any suitable polygonal shape and are not required to be of identical configurations. For example, identical panels may be used to create any suitable assembly of polygonal shapes or panels having different configurations may be assembled into any suitable shape.

Referring to FIG. 2, the panel (20) has an elongated shape having a plurality of interconnected portion including a pair of coupling portions (24) and a plurality of inner portions (22). The plurality of panel portions (22) are rigidly connected one another at angles such that when multiple panels (20) are assembled a honeycomb or a plurality of hexagonal shapes are formed. Any suitable angle of coupling between adjacent portions (22) may be provided to create the desired configuration. In the version shown in FIG. 1, the portions (22), (24) are aligned with one another at an angle measuring approximately 120 degrees. However, any suitable angle may be used.

In the version shown in FIG. 1, the panel (20) comprises five inner portions (22) and two coupling portions (24). The coupling portions (24) are half the size of the inner portions (22) such that when two coupling portions (24) are engaged during assembly a portion is formed having the same dimensions as the inner portions (22). It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the inner portions (22) may have the same length and size as the coupling portions (24), or may be a fraction of the size as shown to facilitate coupling.

Referring to FIG. 3, in the illustrated version because the panels (20) have an identical configuration they may be stacked or nested within one another for transport. In this manner the panels (20) may be moved in a relatively small space and later assembled to support much larger voids. The uniform configuration of the panels (20) also allows for a storage structure to be built with a minimal number of components. The illustrated configuration thus may reduce transport, assembly, and production costs.

In one version, each panel (20) is approximately 48 inches in length, 12 inches in height, and 0.1 inches thick. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that any suitable dimensions may be used. For example, the length of the panel may vary from 32 inches to 70 inches. Still it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the length of the panel (20) may be less than or greater than this range. Similarly, the panel (20) may have a height ranging from 4 inches to 20 inches. Still it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the height of the panel (20) may be less than or greater than this range. The panel (20) may have a thickness ranging from 0.060 inches to 0.250 inches. Still it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the thickness of the panel (20) may be less than or greater than this range.

In the version shown, each portion (22), (24) has a generally rectangular frame having slats defining a plurality of voids (26) therein. The portions (22), (24) may have any suitable frame or slat configuration to provide maximum strength with a minimum amount of material. For example, the frames may be hourglass shaped, have concave edges, or any other suitable shape. The portions (22), (24) may have any suitable slat or support structures, may have only a frame, or may have a solid configuration. Various portions may also have different configurations.

Design of the panels (20) and the portions (22), (24) may depend upon a number of factors including characteristics relating to the type of material from which the panels (20) are produced, the load to be supported by the panels (20), the aesthetic appeal of the panels (20), and manufacturing costs. Increasing the size of the voids (26) may limit the structural design of the panels (20) such that the panels (20) cannot withstand the necessary forces exerted against it. The shape of the voids (26) may depend upon the structural design of the panel (20) or portions (22), (24). In one version, the panels (20) are configured or extruded from a polymer or plastic material, although any suitable material or manufacturing technique may be used. For example, the panels (20) may be constructed out of polypropylene. The panels (20) may also be produced from a single mold.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that other suitable designs for the panel (20) may be used, including that shown in FIG. 4 depicting a second version of a panel (40) having a plurality of interconnected portions (42). Each portion (42) has two side edges (45). At least one side edge (45) of each portion (42) is adjacent to a side edge of another portion (42). The adjacent portions (42) may be aligned or configured to produce any suitable angle. In this version, the angle produced equals approximately 120 degrees, although any suitable shape or configuration is contemplated.

Referring again to FIG. 1, a plurality of panels (20) are engaged and assembled with the connector (30), which is also shown in FIG. 5. The connector may be any suitable component configured to engage a first panel and a second panel or a plurality of panels. The version of the connector (30) shown resembles a star shape and has radiating portions that may connect multiple panels (20). The connector (30) may have any suitable shape such as, for example, a diamond-shaped connector, a round connection, a rectangular connector, an X-shaped connector, or the like, may be used. Further, the term shape may not necessarily encompass a closed shape.

In the version shown in FIG. 5, the bottom and top sides of the connector (30) are not identical. This will be explained in more detail later. However, in at least some sense, the connector (30) is reversible because the top side of the connector (30) may simultaneously engage the same number of panels (20) as the bottom side of the connector (30). In one version, the connector (30) is capable of engaging up to seven panels (20). It will be understood by those skilled in the art that other suitable versions of the connector (30) may be used. The connector (30) may have any suitable shape, may be configured from any suitable material such as a polymer or plastic, and may be manufactured by any suitable method such as, for example, from a single mold. Likewise, the connector (30) may be identical on both its bottom side and its top side.

As shown in FIG. 1, the connector (30) may simultaneously engage a plurality of panels (20) to maintain a plurality of panels (20) in a particular position. In one version, no hardware or equipment is needed to assemble the connector (30) with each of the plurality of panels (20). The connector (30) may be engaged with each of the plurality of panels (20) with a snap fit, a friction fit, a clasp, a lock, a hook and loop fastener, a slide, or any other suitable coupling.

As shown in FIG. 1, the bottom side of the connector (30) is engaged with a plurality of panels (20). The top side of the connector (30) may also engage a plurality of panels (20). This configuration of the connector (30) allows for panels (20) to be configured adjacent one another to form a hexagonal shape. Assembling numerous hexagonal shapes adjacent each other forms the honeycomb shape seen in FIG. 1.

In another configuration of panels (20) shown in FIG. 6, two hexagon shapes are produced when three panels (20) are configured into the illustrated positions. As shown, assembling the panels (20-A), (20-B), and (20-C) in the manner shown forms the two hexagonal shapes adjacent one another. The plurality of hexagonal shapes being positioned adjacent to one another forms a honeycomb shape.

When the panels (20) are assembled, the connector (30) maintains the panels (20) in their respective positions with a plurality of engagement members (34). In one version, the engagement members (34) have three elongated slots (36), as shown in FIG. 7. The three slots (36) project radially from a single intersection point and are spaced at angled intervals of approximately 120 degrees.

Each slot (36) is configured to engage an edge of a panel (20) to retain the panel (20) when assembled. For example, in the illustrated version, the slot (36) snaps into engagement with the panel (20) as shown in FIGS. 8A-8B. It will be understood that any suitable technique or structure may be used to engage the slot (36) with the panel (20). For example, the panel (20) may slide, couple, lock, snare, or snap into the slot (36).

As mentioned earlier in regards to the version shown in FIG. 5, the bottom side and the top side of the connector (30) may not be identical. One of the sides may be described as a flush side where the engagement members (34) on that side are flush with the respective portions of the connector (30) with which the respective engagement members (34) intersect. This flush side of the connector (30) may be positioned against a surface with which the storage system (10) contacts. Further, this flush side of the connector (30) may be positioned relatively upwards to minimize the chance of those traveling proximal the connector (30) from contacting a heightened part of the connector (30). Likewise, the engagement members (34) on the opposite side of the connector (30) may not be flush with the respective portions of the connector (30) with which they interact. This side of the connector (30) may be positioned relatively downwards to minimize the chance of those traveling proximal the connector (30) from contacting a heightened part of the connector (30). One example where individuals may be traveling proximal the connector (30) includes where layers of honeycomb are being assembled onto each other.

As shown in FIG. 7, the engagement member (34) is flush with at least one portion of the connector (30) with which it interacts. In some versions, various numbers or groups of engagement members (34) may be flush with the connector (30). Further, these various numbers or groups may or may not be on the same side of the connector (30).

Configuring additional panels (20) to engage the top side of a connector (30) where the bottom side is respectively engaged with other panels (20) forms a multi-layered system. In one version, because the top side and the bottom side of the connector (30) are identical, the hexagonal shapes produced on various layers are aligned with each other. In another version, the hexagonal shapes produced on various layers may not align with each other. One example where this non-alignment would exist is in a version where the groups of slots (36) on each respective side of the connector (30) were not aligned in the same direction.

As shown in FIG. 5, one version of the connector (30) further comprises a male component (38) and a female component (39). The connector (30) engages another connector (30) by engaging a respective male component (38) and a respective female component (39) as shown in FIG. 9. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that any technique or structure may be used to couple the plurality of the connectors (30). For example, the connectors (30) may be configured to engage each other with a snap fit, a friction fit, or any other suitable coupling.

As shown in FIG. 5, the connector (30) comprises a plurality of male components (38) and female components (39). Three of each component (38), (39), for example, are respectively positioned on the bottom side and the top side of the connector (30). As shown in FIG. 5, the three identical components on the same side of the connector (30) are positioned at consecutive outer points of the connector (30). It will be understood that other suitable configurations for the components (38), (39) may be used. For example, the location of the different components (38), (39) may alternate along the outer points of the connector (30).

As mentioned earlier, the bottom side and the top side of the connector (30) are identical. Therefore, both sides of the connector (30) may engage panels (20). In this circumstance, a multilayered system is created where each layer contains a different row of panels (20) respectively engaged with a connector (30). Regardless of whether a panel (20) is positioned above or below the connector (30), the panel (20) engages the connector (30) in the same manner. As mentioned earlier, various techniques and systems may be used to achieve this engagement. For example, the panel (20) and the connector (30) may respectively snap into engagement.

An expansive multi-layer system may be configured from the components described herein. Each layer of panels (20) may be continually expanded by adding further panels (20) and connectors (30) onto the existing platform. The panels (20) would continue to increase the number of hexagonal shapes formed and thus further expand the honeycomb shape formed by the hexagonal shapes.

One version of a method of use for the version of the storage system (10) comprises creating a cavity in which to place the storage system (10). The surface of the cavity may be layered with a geogrid material. At least one connector (30) may be positioned on the bottom surface of the cavity. A plurality of the connectors (30) may be positioned on the bottom surface of the cavity depending upon the size of the cavity. In this version, if the connectors (30) have a side that is flush, the flush side of the connector (30) may be placed in contact with the bottom surface of the cavity.

After positioning at least one connector (30) on the bottom surface of the cavity, a plurality of panels (20) are engaged with this first level of the connector (30). The plurality of panels (20) are positioned such that the panels (30) are aligned in the same direction as shown in FIG. 6.

The respective first layer of panels (20) and the connectors (30) may be configured to snap into engagement with each other. More particularly, the bottom edge of the panels (20) and the respective connector (30) are configured to engage each other. The panels (20) will continue to be positioned until an adequate number is present in an adequate configuration.

The first layer of panels (20) will form a series of hexagonal shapes. The hexagonal shapes will in turn form a honeycomb shape. A second honeycomb-shaped layer may then be added onto the first layer as shown in FIG. 10. The first step in adding this additional layer is positioning a second layer of connectors (30) to engage the upper edge of at least two different panels (20) from the first layer of panels (20). Depending upon the number of the panels (20) in the first layer, various numbers of connectors (30) may be used. The connector (30) may be engaged with more than two panels (20) depending upon the number of the first layer of panels (20). Likewise, if connectors (30) have a flush side are being used, the flush side of the connectors (30) may be positioned facing upwards such that the non-flush side of the connectors (30) would engage the respective panels (20).

After configuring the second layer of connectors (30) and the upper edge of the first layer of panels (20) into engagement, a second layer of panels (20) is positioned in engagement with the second layer of connectors (30). This second layer of panels is configured in a similar manner compared to the first layer meaning that the plurality of panels (20) is aligned in the same direction as shown in FIG. 6.

This second layer of panels (20) may then be engaged with a third layer of connectors (30). The connectors (30) secure the respective position of the second layer of the panels (20) by engaging the respective top edges of the panels (20). Any suitable number of layers may be added to this foundation.

This version of a storage system described in this exemplary method may be used for any suitable purpose. For example, this version of a system may be used to accumulate or store water underground. Likewise, this version of a storage system may be used to store some other substance. For example, this version of the storage system may be used to store a liquid other than water. The void ratio produced from this version may measure at least 90% where the void ratio compares the available storage space in the cavity prior to the construction of the system and after the construction of the system. Still, it will be understood that other suitable void ratios may be produced using this system. For example, a void ratio measuring at least 94% may be produced.

The versions presented in this disclosure are examples. Having shown and described various versions, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the claim below. Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the examples, embodiments, ratios, steps, and the like discussed above may be illustrative and not required. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A storage system comprising:

(a) a plurality of elongate panels, each of the plurality of elongate panels comprising a plurality of adjacent portions, wherein each of the plurality of adjacent portions is angled relative to each adjacent portion; and

(b) a connector, the connector configured to retain the plurality of elongate panels in an assembled configuration.

2. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the plurality elongate panels are arranged into hexagonal shapes.

3. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the elongate panels further comprise a plurality of inner portions and a plurality of coupling portions.

4. The storage system of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of inner portions has substantially the same dimensions.

5. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of adjacent portions are angled at from 110 degrees to 130 degrees relative to each adjacent portion.

6. The storage system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of adjacent portions are angled at 120 degrees relative to each adjacent portion.

7. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises at least one engagement member configured to accept each of the plurality of elongate panels.

8. The storage system of claim 1, wherein the connector is positioned transverse to each of the plurality of elongate panels.

9. The storage system of claim 1, where the connector comprises a plurality of connectors configured to retain the plurality of elongate panels in the assembled configuration.

10. A subsurface storage system comprising:

(a) a first layer comprising at least one connector, wherein each connector includes at least one engaging member;

(b) a second layer comprising a plurality of panels, wherein each of the plurality of panels comprises a bottom edge and a top edge, wherein each of the plurality of panels is positioned adjacent to at least one other panel, wherein each of the plurality of panels is engaged with the at least one connector; and

(c) a third layer comprising at least one connector, wherein the at least one connector is engaged with at least one top edge of the plurality of panels.

11. The storage system of claim 10, wherein the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer form at least one hexagonal cell.

12. The storage system of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of hexagonal cells.

13. The storage system of claim 12, further comprising a fourth layer, wherein the fourth layer comprises a plurality of panels engaged with the at least one connector of the third layer.

14. The storage system of claim 12, further comprising a fifth layer, wherein the fifth layer comprises at least one connector engaged with the plurality of panels of the fourth layer.